12 Inch Handlebars for Street Glide: Best Options and Fitment Guide (2011–2021)

For many Harley-Davidson riders, upgrading handlebars is one of the first steps toward improving both comfort and control. On touring models like the Street Glide, the right handlebar height can significantly influence riding posture, long-distance comfort, and overall handling. Among the most popular choices, 12-inch handlebars for Street Glide models provide an ideal balance between ergonomic improvement and straightforward installation.

This guide explores the best 12-inch handlebars for Street Glide motorcycles from 2011 to 2021, including compatibility considerations for different model years, installation requirements, and commonly used aftermarket options. Whether you ride a standard Street Glide, a special edition, or a CVO model, understanding fitment and setup is essential before making an upgrade.

At Legendary Parts, riders can find a wide selection of OEM and aftermarket Harley-Davidson handlebars, along with compatible cables, wiring extensions, and installation components to complete the conversion properly.

Best 12 Inch Handlebars for Street Glide

A 12-inch handlebar setup is often considered the sweet spot for Street Glide riders who want improved comfort without significantly altering the bike’s geometry. Compared with the stock handlebars, which place the rider’s hands relatively low, a 12-inch bar raises the grip position enough to create a more relaxed arm angle.

Several styles are commonly used on Street Glide models:

1. Ape Hangers (12")

A classic choice that provides a tall, upright stance. On touring models, these are often designed with internal wiring channels and reinforced bends to handle long-distance riding conditions.

2. Meathook Handlebars (12")

Recognisable by their squared upper bends, meathook-style bars offer a more aggressive appearance while maintaining ergonomic positioning.

3. T-Bars (12")

Though traditionally used on performance builds, some riders choose T-bars for improved front-end control. These typically require additional modifications compared to traditional touring handlebars.

4. Touring-Specific 12" Bars

Many aftermarket manufacturers produce handlebars designed specifically for Harley-Davidson Touring models, ensuring compatibility with the fairing, controls, and internal wiring.

When selecting handlebars, riders should consider:

• Internal wiring capability

• Clamp diameter (typically 1.25" stepped to 1")

• Fairing clearance

• Cable and brake line length

• Riding posture preferences

These factors help ensure the upgrade remains both functional and comfortable during long rides.

12 Inch Handlebars for 2014 Street Glide

The 2014 Street Glide represents an important point in the model’s evolution. That year marked the introduction of the Project Rushmore platform, which brought updates to the fairing, infotainment system, and control layout.

For riders installing 12-inch handlebars on a 2014 Street Glide, several components may need adjustment:

• Extended clutch cable

• Extended brake line

• Wiring extensions for handlebar controls

• Possible throttle-by-wire adjustments

In many cases, a 12 inch setup can still work with stock wiring harnesses, though some riders prefer installing extension kits to simplify routing inside the bars.

Another factor is fairing clearance. The batwing fairing used on Street Glide models requires handlebars with proper pullback and bend angles to avoid interference during full steering lock.

Choosing handlebars designed specifically for Touring models from 2014 onward typically avoids these issues.

12 Inch Handlebars for 2019 Street Glide

The 2019 Street Glide continues the Rushmore design but includes refinements to suspension, braking, and electronic systems.

Installing 12-inch handlebars on a 2019 Street Glide is generally considered a straightforward upgrade, particularly when using handlebars designed for 2014+ Touring platforms.

Important installation considerations include:

• Throttle-by-wire compatibility

• Internal wiring access points

• Brake line routing along the fairing

Many aftermarket handlebars include pre-drilled wiring holes, which simplify installation and allow the wiring harness to remain hidden inside the bars. This maintains a clean cockpit appearance while protecting cables from exposure.

Riders who frequently travel long distances often choose 12-inch handlebars for improved wrist alignment and shoulder comfort, especially during extended highway riding.

12 Inch Handlebars for 2020 Street Glide

The 2020 Street Glide shares many structural similarities with earlier Rushmore models, making it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket handlebars designed for Touring bikes.

For a 12-inch handlebar conversion on a 2020 Street Glide, most riders follow a standard installation process:

1. Remove the stock handlebars and controls

2. Transfer switches, grips, and throttle components

3. Route internal wiring through the new handlebars

4. Install extended cables if required

5. Reconnect and test control functions

Many riders appreciate that 12 inch handlebars maintain a balanced riding position, raising the grip height without pushing the rider into an overly upright posture.

Because the Street Glide already features a large front fairing and touring geometry, moderate handlebar heights like 12 inches often work well for both city riding and highway touring.

12 Inch Handlebars for 2021 Street Glide

The 2021 Street Glide continues Harley-Davidson’s touring lineup with the Milwaukee-Eight engine and modern electronic systems. From a handlebar compatibility standpoint, most Touring handlebars designed for 2014–2021 models will fit properly.

When upgrading to 12-inch handlebars for a 2021 Street Glide, riders should verify the following:

• Compatibility with the throttle-by-wire system

• Adequate brake line and clutch cable length

• Clearance with the batwing fairing and mirrors

• Proper torque settings for riser clamps

Another point to consider is handlebar pullback, which determines how close the grips sit to the rider. A well-designed pullback angle helps reduce strain on the shoulders during long-distance riding.

Many riders upgrading their Street Glide handlebars choose models with internal wire routing and smooth bends, which simplify installation and maintain a factory-style appearance.

KST 12 Inch Handlebars for Street Glide

Among aftermarket options, KST handlebars have become a common choice for touring Harley-Davidson builds.

KST (Kraus Style Touring) handlebars are known for:

• Internal wiring compatibility

• Reinforced tubing designed for touring motorcycles

• Geometry optimised for batwing fairings

• Compatibility with throttle-by-wire systems

A KST 12-inch handlebar for Street Glide models is typically designed with Touring fitment in mind, meaning it works with models ranging from early 2010s Street Glides through more recent Milwaukee-Eight versions.

These handlebars are often paired with:

• Extended cable kits

• Touring risers

• Custom grips and mirrors

Because touring bikes require reliable long-distance performance, many riders prefer handlebars that combine durable construction with predictable fitment.

Street Glide CVO Compatibility

Street Glide CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) models feature additional factory upgrades, including unique paint, premium components, and sometimes different cockpit configurations.

When installing 12-inch handlebars on a Street Glide CVO, compatibility should be verified for:

• Control housings

• Heated grips (if equipped)

• Wiring harness length

• Brake line routing

While many Touring handlebars designed for 2014+ models will also fit CVO versions, certain features may require additional wiring extensions or adapters.

CVO models often include additional electronic components integrated into the handlebars, so careful routing and installation are recommended.

At Legendary Parts, riders can find both OEM Harley-Davidson components and compatible aftermarket upgrades designed to work with Street Glide models, including CVO versions.

Choosing the Right Handlebars for Your Street Glide

Selecting the right handlebars ultimately depends on the rider’s height, riding posture, and preferred riding style. While some riders prefer taller setups such as 14 or 16-inch bars, many Street Glide owners find that 12-inch handlebars provide a balanced combination of comfort, control, and straightforward installation.

When planning a handlebar upgrade, riders should consider:

• Riding posture and comfort

• Cable and wiring requirements

• Compatibility with the bike’s fairing and controls

• Availability of installation components

A well-planned handlebar upgrade can transform the riding experience, particularly for riders who spend long hours on touring routes.

With a wide selection of Harley-Davidson OEM and aftermarket parts, Legendary Parts supports riders looking to personalise their Street Glide while maintaining compatibility and reliability.

For riders exploring new upgrades or maintaining their current setup, having access to the right parts, accurate fitment information, and regularly updated inventory helps ensure every modification is completed with confidence.